United States President Donald Trump celebrated America’s 250th Independence anniversary on Saturday by describing the nation as the greatest achievement in human history while using the occasion to launch fresh criticism against political opponents he labelled as communists.
Trump’s address at the National Mall in Washington was delayed for several hours after severe thunderstorms forced officials to temporarily evacuate thousands of attendees. Despite earlier indications that the celebration would double as a major political rally, the Republican president delivered a largely patriotic speech focused on the country’s history and military service.
Addressing a large crowd, Trump praised the United States for its 250-year journey, calling the American republic “the crowning achievement of human history.” He also said the country was “prouder than ever before” under his administration.
The president paid tribute to veterans who served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, before using the latter conflicts to warn against what he described as the return of communism in America.
”Our warriors did not fight communism on battlefields across the world only to have that menace return here in America,” Trump said, echoing remarks he made a day earlier at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. He added that communism was “like a cancer” that had to be removed.
Trump also highlighted recent U.S. military operations involving Iran and Venezuela, claiming Washington had “wiped out” Tehran’s military capabilities.
The speech, which lasted about 45 minutes, concluded with a massive fireworks display that Trump said would be the largest ever staged.
Across the country, Americans marked the anniversary despite extreme weather conditions. Washington recorded temperatures of about 39.4°C (103°F), setting a July 4 record, while millions remained under heat alerts. Bad weather also disrupted Independence Day events in cities including New York City, Philadelphia and Boston, forcing changes to fireworks displays and public celebrations.
Storms also threatened Trump’s appearance, prompting authorities to briefly clear the National Mall before the president eventually took the stage. The evacuation led to moments of confusion as some supporters resisted leaving and others attempted to re-enter the venue.
While many supporters praised Trump’s remarks and patriotic message, the anniversary also reflected the nation’s deep political divisions. Near the U.S. Capitol, groups of masked demonstrators, including some carrying Confederate flags and displaying symbols linked to white supremacist organisations, gathered with calls to “Reclaim America.”
Meanwhile, a recent Quinnipiac University poll found that 61 percent of Americans believe the country is not fully living up to the ideals outlined in the Declaration of Independence.